Livalo and the generic alternative pitavastatin are prescription medications used to treat lower levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol and triglycerides in your body and to raise the levels of ‘good’ cholesterol. Pitavastatin works by slowing your liver’s production of cholesterol and decreasing the cholesterol buildup on the walls of your arteries which allows blood to flow easier. Livalo should be taken as part of a treatment plan which may also include exercising, weight control, eating a low-fat diet and stopping smoking.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Livalo is typically taken once daily and can be taken with or without food.
• Livalo is most effective when it is taken regularly. Try to take this medication at the same time every day.
• Continue taking pitavastatin even when you feel well.
• Livalo is frequently taken as part of a treatment plan which involves lifestyle changes. Follow your doctor’s directions about exercise, diet, weight control and stopping smoking.
• If you also take bile acid-binding resins (including cholestyramine or colestipol) to lower your cholesterol, then take Livalo at least one hour before or four hours after taking these medications as they can react with pitavastatin preventing it from fully absorbing.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history especially of liver disease, thyroid disease or kidney disease.
• Your use of alcohol, especially if you drink more than two alcoholic beverages daily.

Other information you should also know:

• You must not take pitavastatin during pregnancy. Speak to your doctor about appropriate birth control and tell your doctor immediately if you feel you may be pregnant.
• Livalo can past into breast milk and harm a nursing infant. Do not breast-feed while taking this medication.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Livalo.
• Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of liver problems. Limit your alcohol intake while taking Livalo.

Common side effects of Livalo:

• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Back pain.
• Muscle pain or a pain in your arms or legs.

If you have any of the following pitavastatin side effects, seek medical help:

• Memory problems or confusion.
• Signs of a kidney problem including rapid weight gain, swelling, vomiting, little or no urination or a pain in your side or lower back.
• Signs of a liver problem such as dark urine, jaundice, loss of appetite, clay-colored stools or a pain the upper right side of your stomach.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Livalo?

If you miss a dose of Livalo, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What else is Livalo called?

Livalo is also known as Alipza internationally. Alipza is the same brand name medication with a different name internationally and is not a generic alternative medication. Generic Livalo is called pitavastatin.